Student Case Studies

Art, Design & Media Level 1 - Charlie

Former School(s): The Priory Dorking

Charlie has always had an interest in art and design. He does a lot of artwork at home, and his favourite subject at school was Design Technology.

With his excellent GSCE grades, Charlie could have gone on to study A Levels but he much prefered the mix of coursework and practical work a vocational course offers.

"I feel you should follow whatever you do best in, enhancing your strengths in familiar territory rather than stepping into something you’re not particularly good at or interested in.”

His interest in Design Technology led him to enrol on the Carpentry Level 1 course when he initally joined ESC. However, he soon switched to his current course as he felt it could lead to multiple career options and offered more versatility and scope to work to broader briefs.

“The course is perfect for me. It allows me to be creative in a slightly disciplined way. We have the freedom to use a wide variety of methods, medium and disciplines to achieve our assignments.”

Charlie also likes the flexibility of his timetable which allows time to develop work outside of the College.

“Studying four days a week allows time to develop work outside of College.”

He is currently doing work experience at his former primary school where he assists on art projects such as photography and printing. This gives him the chance to share some of the skills he is learning at College.

Charlie values the support he receives at College, commenting:

“The teaching support is absolutely amazing – I feel I can go to my tutor with any issue and there is also a very supportive safe-guarding team.”

He is also very positive about his experience of the College in general:

“ESC has a very welcoming atmosphere and you’ll always find a friend. Inclusivity is a big thing for me and I'm so happy I get to be myself here".

On completion of his course, Charlie plans to continue studying at the College to deepen his knowledge and widen his career options.  Future paths of interest to him are photography, graphic design or games design.

Got a passion for Art? Discover our full range of Art, Media & Design courses here